SHOPPERS are coming to Coventry in bigger numbers than ever - and more high street shops are being sought for them.

According to footfall figures, 25 per cent more "fashionistas" are hitting the Lower Precinct for their clothes compared to 2005.

The latest name to be added to the city's Lower Precinct shopping area is the Carphone Warehouse, which has filled the last empty unit.

It comes as Coventry city centre promoter and management CV One released figures showing the number of people shopping in Coventry the week before Christmas was 9.5 per cent higher than in 2005.

It also revealed that, since high street chain Primark opened, footfall has increased by 7.5 per cent.

The Carphone Warehouse has moved from Coventry's Upper Precinct shopping centre and has taken a 10-year lease for a 1,586 sq ft unit on the lower ground floor at Lower Precinct.

Matthew Hellewell, of property adviser DTZ, said: "This highlights the Lower Precinct's position as one of the most highly regarded retail destinations in Coventry.

"The location of the new IKEA store currently under construction adjacent to the shopping centre is likely to strengthen its popularity among shoppers in Coventry.

"The Carphone Warehouse appears to have recognised the positive impact the new IKEA store will have on visitor numbers."

Vicky Brewin, from CV One, said: "The increase in shoppers during the Christmas period is fantastic. CV One has been working hard throughout 2006 to encourage retailers such as Primark and Bank to set up in the city centre and it has definitely paid off.

"As the city's retail offering has improved, Coventry has had a lot more to offer shoppers. We still believe that there is a lot more to do in the city but that is something we will continue to work on throughout 2007."